(Cleveland) – This is becoming a very deadly flu season for Greater Cleveland.

The Cuyahoga County Board of Health reports that 15 people have died from influenza so far this season.

There were 5 additional fatalities last week, pushing the total up from 10.

Richard Stacklin of the Board of Health tells Newsradio WTAM 1100 the current 15 are 3 more deaths than occurred during the peak of the dreaded H1N1 flu season a few years ago.

Of the 15 deaths this season, all were senior citizens except two.

Stacklin says they are currently seeing the number of cases decline, however, he is predicting that trend to quickly reverse with influenza spiking in the coming weeks.

Clevelander receiving a flu shot.

Stacklin explains there are about 8 weeks left in the flu season, so it's not too late to get vaccinated, and it's never too late to practice preventative measures.

He warns, never cough into your hands, wash your hands frequently, and stay away from public places if you feel sick.

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(Copyright 2013 Clear Channel, all rights reserved. Nurse photo by Getty Images.)